Separation of Powers
-
This activity outlines how the separation of powers operates in practice by examining the roles of the legislature, executive and judiciary. Students analyse government actions and sort responsibilities to understand how dividing power prevents overreach and supports accountability under the rule of law.
-
This activity outlines the separation of powers using a concentric‑circles model to help students visualise how different branches of government exercise and limit power. Through structured analysis, students explore how these roles interact to protect rights, maintain independence and uphold the rule of law.
-
Reflection Activity designed as part of the Informed Civics Competition where students draw on the blank card what they have learned about the concept Governance Structures (Separation of Powers).
Suggested drawing prompt:
Students create a “Separation of Powers” diagram showing the three branches of government: Parliament, Executive, and Judiciary. They label each branch with its main role and use symbols and arrows to show how the branches share power and provide checks on one another.
Governance Structures (Separation of Powers) Reflection
Blank playing card visual reflection activity
Students use this blank playing card as a reflection tool to show their understanding of how Australia’s system of government separates power between Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary. Before drawing, students read the factsheet on Governance Structures here to understand how authority is distributed and how checks and balances operate within Australia’s democratic system. Designing the card helps students distil these ideas into a clear visual summary, showing how each branch relies on — yet limits — the others to prevent the concentration of power.
Students can submit this completed playing‑card drawing to the Informed Civics Competition for a chance to win!
See suggested drawing prompts below:
Related Resources
-
This explainer outlines the role of key institutions in Australia’s legal and democratic system, including courts, parliaments and executive bodies. It explains how these institutions interact, exercise power and provide checks and balances to maintain the rule of law.
-
This explainer outlines Australia’s governance structures and how authority is organised across different institutions and levels of government. It explains how these structures distribute power, support accountability and help ensure decisions are made lawfully and in the public interest.
-
This activity outlines the separation of powers using a concentric‑circles model to help students visualise how different branches of government exercise and limit power. Through structured analysis, students explore how these roles interact to protect rights, maintain independence and uphold the rule of law.
Explore Related Topics
-
Checks and Balances on Power
Explore resources on checks and balances, explaining how oversight limits power and ensures decisions remain lawful and accountable, supporting transparency, restraint, & responsible government action.
-
The Division of Powers
Explore resources on the division of powers, showing how legislative authority is shared between the Commonwealth and states, supporting effective governance and accountability
-
Independent and Impartial Judiciary
Explore resources on an independent and impartial judiciary, including the history of the Supreme Court & its role in delivering justice & strengthening trust in the judiciary.